It’s 2018, and we’ve all heard the phrase “New Year, New You”…but here’s the thing: being you is actually the best, because you’re the only you there could ever be! So instead of trying to reinvent yourself, why not read some nonfiction books to help yourself be the smartest, most interesting, well-informed person you could be? (Also, you’ll know so much it will be impossible not to impress people at parties.)

1776, by David McCullough
Hamilton fans, if you can’t get enough of Revolutionary history, this book is your next read. It follows both the North American and British sides of the conflict, and focuses on two leaders in particular: George Washington, and Red Coat commander William Howe. Factual but fun to read, American history that won’t put you to sleep.

Alexander Hamilton, by Ron Chernow
Another mandatory pick for Hamilton fans; the book the musical is based on! Follow Hamilton’s haunting upbringing as a poor, but brilliant kid in the Caribbean who travels to America with the hope of changing the world…and the downfall he could not recover from.

The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, by Rebecca Skloot
This true story confronts the collision of science and systemic racism with the story of Henrietta Lacks, whose cells were taken without her consent for study…and are still living today.

The Origins of Totalitarianism, by Hannah Arendt
History can certainly inform the present….that is, if we the people aren’t informed. This book starts in the 1800’s and continues through World War I. No matter where you fall on the political spectrum, history is history, and it never hurts to remember it.

The Six Wives of Henry VIII, by Alison Weir
On to a more scandalous historical figure…or six of them, actually! The wives of Henry VIII had interesting lives before they met him, and his impact on their lives—and in some cases, their deaths—altered history. Full of juicy details, this reads like a novel.

Cleopatra, A Life, by Stacy SchiffWho WAS Cleopatra, a woman built into life by myth and legend? Historian Stacy Schiff gives you access to her palace and a world that you MUST read to believe: incest, murder, poison, infidelity, and more…why isn’t there a TV show about her again?

MAUS I, by Art Spiegelman
I first read this book when I was young, but the story has stayed with me forever. The author shares the story of his father’s experience during the holocaust in graphic novel form, using animals instead of humans to detail the horrifying experience.

We Were Eight Years In Power, by Ta-Nehisi Coates
This collection of essays that follow President Obama’s two terms is a fascinating deep-dive into how race impacted Obama’s presidency and the ensuing 2016 election.

The New Jim Crow, by Michelle AlexanderHere’s an uncomfortable truth: The ripple effects of slavery and Jim Crow are still here due to a systemic mass incarceration problem, essentially enslaving millions of black men and women behind bars. Learn about this system of oppression in this difficult, but important book.

Night, by Elie Wiesel
This classic autobiography of one man’s journey to survive the Holocaust is a gripping portrait of both the depths of evil—and the precipice of hope—that human beings are capable of.

How Google Works, by Eric Schmidt and Jonathan Rosenberg
With terms like “net neutrality” leading in the news, it’s important to become informed on the intersection of tech and government…and where best to start than with Google? Learn about their founding history, philosophy, and what it takes to succeed there.

How We Got to Now, by Steven JohnsonThe modern world wasn’t built in a day, but it did innovate to evolve. This book is great for history buffs and factoid-finders (and maybe a reluctant reader or two, because there are illustrations!).

The Crown, by Robert LaceySeason Two of the hit Netflix TV show has aired, you’ve marathoned it already, and you want more! Check out the book the show is based on and relive all the shocking and emotional moments, this time on the page.

Mistress of the Vatican, by Eleanor HermanThis salacious non-fiction history delves into the sordid and secretive history of the Vatican, and the forgotten woman who helped a man become Pope.

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck, by Mark Manson
Look, 2017 was a rough year. So maybe the secret to success is not caring so much? Read this book and pass along the gospel of not giving a f*ck to your friends.

Love Warrior, by Glennon Doyle
Glennon Doyle shares the heartbreaking story of learning her husband was unfaithful, and how she took her broken marriage and used the opportunity to piece herself back together again.

It’s Okay to Laugh, by Nora McIerneyThis memoir about a woman’s journey through becoming a young, widowed mother (and losing her father shortly after her husband’s death) is surprisingly hilarious. That’s what Nora does: she uses dark humor to guide herself through grief, and if you could use a little bit of that, this book is for you.

The Autobiography of Malcolm X, by Malcolm XA definitive figure of the Civil Rights Movement, Malcom X’s biography is essential reading when it comes to understanding current race relations in the United States. Learn about his upbringing, his conversion to Islam, and his activism.

Devil’s Bargain, by Joshua Green
Moving from the past political situation to the present, this book is essential reading for newfound politicos who want to enter 2018 informed and engaged. It details Steve Bannon’s relationship with President Trump, and what it took to get him elected.

Spark Joy, by Marie KondoWe all need a little more joy in our lives, so consult organizational specialist Marie Kondo for the ways you can get rid of clutter and make room in your heart for objects and people that make you happy.

Bullies, by Alex AbramovichA fascinating story of a man who befriends his childhood bully later in life, this story can teach you about reaching beyond your bubble, finding common ground in common pain, and the importance of forgiveness.

Hidden Figures, by Margot Lee Shetterly
Math is not my thing, but reading the story of the brilliant black women who got us to the moon totally is. These women worked as “human computers” and calculated what we would need to win the space race, but their stories have been lost to history until now.

Stamped from the Beginning, by Ibram X. KendiBe an informed citizen and read this detailed account of racism in America. Using the stories of prominent American intellectuals to frame the debates of assimilationists, segregationists, racists, and allies.

Being Nixon, by Evan ThomasLearn about the man behind the Watergate scandal: his background with a troubled older brother, his service in the Navy, and his political ascent. We tend to define historical figures by one event, and this biography shares the whole picture.

In the Garden of Beasts, by Erik LarsonImagine being an American in the government….working with Adolf Hitler. This fascinating true story follows the Ambassador to Hitler’s Third Reich, William E. Dodd, and his family, as they enter the garden, are charmed by the snake, and witness the atrocities firsthand.

Escape from Camp 14, by Blaine Harden
We know most things about Hitler’s Germany, but North Korea’s totalitarian regime is still, in many ways, a mystery. This is the haunting story of a person born inside a North Korean prison camp who escaped—after witnessing the executions of his family, being taught to distrust his fellow prisoners, and even fighting his mother for food.

Silent Spring, by Rachel Carson
The definitive text on the urgency of man-made harm to planet Earth, this book follows the banning of DDT and the sweeping reform that followed.

Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls, by Elena FavilliThis book rides the border between fiction and non-fiction, but I’ll allow it, because it’s so cool. Reinvented stories about amazing women throughout history using fairytales as a framing device? Read this book yourself, then get it for everyone you know.

What Happened, by Hillary ClintonHave you been living under a rock, or are just too busy/depressed/overwhelmed to deal with politics? Start 2018 on an informed note by reading the first female candidate for President’s account of the 2016 election.

World Without Mind, by Franklin FoerTechnology is the defining innovation of our time…but is it also the greatest threat? This book tracks the history of technological innovation, especially on the internet, and how it presents unseen dangers we need to prepare ourselves for.

The Blood of Emmett Till, by Timothy B. TysonWe see stories of police brutality daily, but this story of civilian brutality had inexorable consequences on the Civil Rights Movement. Who was Emmett Till? And why has his murder shaped American history?

Shrill, by Lindy WestThis memoir-slash-lifestyle guide for how to be a loud feminist who takes up space in a world that often wants women to be quiet, sweet, and invisible, is full of true stories about the importance of speaking out, showing up, and not caring if people call you “shrill.”

Sex Object, by Jessica ValentiThis book, on a similar theme, explores the impacts of sexism on the day-to-day lives of women.

Muslim Girl, by Amani Al-KhatahtbehThis painful and beautiful memoir details the reality of growing up Muslim in the wake of 9/11, and how Amani struggling with the impact of Islamophobia before launching her groundbreaking website.

Orientalism, by Edward SaidThe origins of the problematic view of “orientalism” still persists, but this classic book breaks down the cultural and political perspectives of the Middle and Near East, aiming to combat prejudiced western philosophy.

Welcome to the Universe, by Neil DeGrasse Tyson, Michael A. Strauss, and J. Richard GottSomething for the science nerd! (Or, aspiring science nerd.) Take a tour of the universe (literally) with renowned scientists explaining planets, aliens, and so much more.

Salt: A World History, by Mark KurlanskyHave you ever thought of the history of things we use every day, and totally take for granted? I never thought of salt as having a history, but it does, and this interesting book details where it comes from, and why it matters so much.

Cooked, by Michael PollanThis memoir is one of the most unique on the list, structurally and content-wise! It follows a food writer’s journey through exploring the different ways we cook things—with fire, water, air, and earth—and mastering the techniques we use to perfect our food.

Yes Please, by Amy PohelerA funny memoir by one of the best comediennes ever, read about Amy’s (rough) beginnings in Hollywood, her persistent optimism, and why she loves being funny.

Bossypants, by Tina FeyIf you read Amy’s memoir, you have to read her BFF’s! Tina Fey is wry, witty, and has lots to say on what it takes to succeed as a woman in a man’s world in this hilarious book.

Wild, by Cheryl StrayedWhen your life collapses and there’s nothing left, where do you go? For Cheryl Strayed, to the Pacific Crest Trail, to figure out what she wants and who she wants to be by putting her body to the ultimate physical test.

Unbroken, by Laura HillenbrandThe story of a pilot brought down during World War II begins with a boy who would become an Olympian, despite a difficult childhood with a tendency towards defiance. It’s that defiance which saved his life years later in the Pacific Ocean, with only a life raft to guide him home.

Victoria the Queen, by Julia BairdShe was fifth in line for the throne, and only a teenager, but she became Queen. The second longest-reigning Queen in history, Victoria led a fascinating, passionate life: all of which is detailed in this book!

A Season With the Witch, by J.W. OckerSalem is an infamous place, ground zero to the 1692 Witch Trials. So when this writer decided to move his family to Salem in 2015 to experience Halloween in the most infamous stomping ground for witches.

Radium Girls, by Kate MooreRadium is everywhere; in everything, and considered an essential ingredient to the beauty industry during World War I. But there is a dark underbelly to this element, experienced by girls working in factories to produce it who suddenly become ill.

Year of Yes, by Shonda RhimesPart how-to guide, part memoir, this uplifting (and short, perfect for commutes!) read by showrunner and TV writer extraordinaire Shonda Rhimes is the guide to positivity you need going into 2018.

We Should All be Feminists, by Chimamanda Ngozi AdichieBased on her incredible TED Talk, this book explores the intersections of women’s issues, politics, and race using the author’s own experience against the backdrop of history.

Bad Feminist by Roxane Gay
Roxane Gay’s essays on what it means to be a woman of color in the modern age are funny and profound, and touch upon everything from pop-culture, how Hollywood approaches rape, privilege, and much more. You’ll certainly impress at a cocktail party with some insights from this one.

There’s nothing sweeter than welcoming a new baby into the world with a library of favorite books that say “We can’t wait to show you how amazing this place we call home is!” The books on this list will earn smiles at any shower—whether the theme is Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, Bollywood Baby, or somewhere in between. Some are traditional favorites. Others are modern classics. Many fall into classic board book categories, teaching shapes, colors, numbers, letters, and feelings. Animals, transportation, community, and nature are all popular themes, along with nerdy topics like quarks and chemistry. There are also more literary titles that include song lyrics, rhyming text, or characters that early readers will fall in love with. They all say “Welcome to the world, little one!

Baby Faces, by Kate Merritt
Anything in the Indestructibles series is a practical and playful gift for little hands, and this is an especially baby friendly title. Gnawing, slobbering, and tearing are no match for these super duper books, making them a favorite of parents and babies.

Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls, by Elena Favilli
Consider bedtime handled. With 100 stories about the lives of 100 women, including Serena Williams and Malala Yousafzai, this collection will leave kids feeling sleepy, inspired, and just a wee bit rebellious.

Pat the Bunny, by Dorothy Kunhardt
As nostalgic as they come, Pat the Bunny has been a favorite for generations. There’s the peekaboo cloth, fragrant flowers, Daddy’s scratchy beard—and of course the fuzzy bunny! Introduce a new generation to this favorite title at your next shower.

Dinoblock, by Christopher Franceschelli
The books in this super chunky series are so satisfying to hold, and dinosaurs are a perennial favorite of kiddos. This title highlights the shape of classic dinosaurs like the long necked brachiosaurus with a guessing game kids will want to play for eons.

Goodnight Moon, by Margaret Wise Brown
This book has been given to many new parents, studied by generations of writers and editors, and beloved by millions of children. Perhaps soon someone will write a thesis on it. Although the question of what makes this a classic is academic—children love it!

Goodnight Songs, by Margaret Wise Brown
Or put a modern spin on classic Margaret Wise Brown with this posthumously published collection of the children’s songs she wrote. Each tune is illustrated by a modern artist and included on a pitch perfect CD that will easily find its way into the bedtime routine.

If I Had a Little Dream, by Nina Laden
Published in 2017, this dreamy book is already a classic. Filled with wonder, love, and lyrical language, this is a book that wishes only the best for our children. And the illustrations are beyond beautiful.

Baby Loves Quarks!, by Ruth Spiro
It’s never too early to nerd out with your baby when it means reading a charming, colorful book together. This simple yet accurate introduction to the invisible world of physics is a great way to inspire a love of science and awe for our amazing world.

Where the Wild Things Are, by Maurice Sendak
There aren’t a ton of picture books that belong in a baby’s library, but this is one of them. It’s a book that has inspired hundreds of writers, children, and even parents to embrace their inner monsters and trust that we will always belong at home, no matter how wild we get. What better way to say “Welcome, little one”?

Welcome, by Mo Willems
For anyone who has wished life came with a user guide, this book is a clever introduction to the weird, wonderful thing we call life. Addressed to babies, this is a witty book parents and older siblings will treasure as well.

The Finger Sports Game, by Hervé Tullet
Well known for his fabulously interactive picture books, Tullet brings the same creativity to toddler-friendly board books. There’s no wrong way to play with these books—and lots of silly ways!

Feminist Baby, by Loryn Brantz
Rhyming text has never been so subversive. Long overdue, this board book stars an irrepressible girl who is ready to take on the patriarchy. Extra points if you give this to parents having a boy!

Mr. Brown Can Moo!, by Dr. Seuss
Seuss is a classic gift, and this short but silly board book is a baby-friendly read-aloud. There are plenty of opportunities to show off your sound effects with moos, buzzs, tick tocks, and more.

I Wish You More, by Amy Krause Rosenthal
Go ahead and buy the whole Amy Krause Rosenthal catalog. It will be treasured throughout childhood! But if you want to limit yourself to just one book, this lovely poem is the perfect place to start. It’s like a book and a heartfelt card all in one.

The Boss Baby, by Marla Frazee
When you bring a new baby home, it doesn’t take long before you realize who’s boss, and it isn’t you. This witty book celebrates pint-size CEOs in all their managerial glory (and just might help Mom and Dad feel a little less alone too).

The Wonderful Things You Will Be, by Emily Winfield Martin
Part of the magic of being so very little is having so very many possibilities lying before you. Wise and dreamy, this book invites children to imagine all they can be and does it in a way that’s never heavy, but rather as uplifting and whimsical as a boy floating up, up, and away on a bouquet of balloons.

Peek-a-Who?,by Nina Laden
Spinning the classic peekaboo game into a menagerie of animal-themed questions, reading this book becomes a game that parents and kids can enjoy together. (Spoiler alert: The last page includes a mirror…peekayou?)

Tap the Magic Tree, by Christie Matheson
Bring the magic of nature inside with this interactive book that follows a single tree through the seasons. Readers will delight as they pat, jiggle, and clap page by page and watch as the illustrated leaves grow.

Color Me: Who’s in the Pond?, by Surya Sajnani
All the Wee Gallery books feature black and white illustrations that are easy for newborn eyes to see. This illustrated bath book includes a special ink that changes color when it gets wet. Perfect for older babies and toddlers who need a little enticement for getting wet.

The Runaway Bunny, by Margaret Wise Brown
There are a few authors on this list more than once, and it’s because they’re so stinking talented. This classic story of a bunny and his mother’s love still makes grownups cry. It’s a beautiful way to say I love you at bedtime each night.

Your Baby’s First Word Will Be DADA, by Jimmy Fallon
Don’t forget dad at the shower. This book is a funny (and clever) way to tilt the scales toward Baby saying “Dada” before “Mama.” A gift sure to get a laugh and an appreciative smile from new fathers!

Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site, by Sherri Duskey Rinker
From the first rhyming line to the last, this book is a satisfying bedtime poem that is perfect for truck-obsessed littles. The sophisticated writing will make it a book new parents look forward to reading again and again and again.

I Like Myself!, by Karen Beaumont
Throwing aside superficial cares like curly hair and bad breath, this exuberant ode to self-esteem is sure to inspire resiliency, self acceptance, and even a little compassion for others. Rhyming text makes the reading experience even more satisfying.

Charley Harper ABC’s, by Charley Harper
There’s something about Harper’s art that is perfect for bright eyed little ones. Graphic, bold, and filled with lively animals, it begs to be admired again and again. This title introduces the alphabet with style.

ABC Dream, by Kim Krans
Sidestep the traditional gifts with this wise take on the standard ABC format. Wordless but filled with images that invite alliteration and imagination, this is a gorgeous book for little ones who are always looking, looking, looking.

Potty, by Leslie Patricelli
Pair this book with a box of diapers or a kid-size potty, and you’ll have the most popular gift at the shower. With her signature humor and bold illustrations, the author addresses one of the classic pain points of parenting in a way that kids will adore.

Touch and Explore Farm, by Xavier Deneux
This is not your grandma’s touch-and-feel book. Multisensory elements enhance sophisticated design and modern illustrations to engage kiddos on every level. Don’t be surprised if you find your own hands longing to lift the flaps too!

The Colors of Us, by Karen Katz
Help kiddos feel at home in the world and at ease with people of all colors with this book that reveals there are many shades of brown—and they’re all beautiful. This walk through a neighborhood will be a favorite for kids of all colors.

This Little President, by Joan Holub
Prime pint-size patriots to know their history with this simple, bright intro to the American presidents. Perfect for family field trips, holidays, and any baby born on the Fourth of July!

Before & After, by Jean Julien
A clever collection of before-and-after scenes, this book will have kids of all ages giggling and wondering what’s next. There’s a pregnant woman, an ice cream cone, and a roller-coaster—all with their funny outcomes revealed on the next page. Expertly paced, this is a book that will inspire your own games and questions.

The Giving Tree, by Shel Silverstein
If this classic title still brings a tear to your eye, it’s the perfect gift for a new niece or nephew. Or give it directly to a new parent who is selflessly caring for an infant the way the giving tree cares for his little boy. This is a gift that grows with readers, whatever age they are!

TouchThinkLearn Opposites, by Xavier Deneux
Xavier Deneux is another one who deserves to be on this list more than once. He is totally in sync with babies’ developmental milestones and the designs that adults find sophisticated and compelling. The TouchThinkLearn series features diecuts, a colorful, graphic design, and clever juxtapositions. Opposites is a great place to dive into this series.

1 2 3 Count with Me, by Tiger Tales
Help little ones practice the skills they need for reading and writing with this tacticle series. The counting title is filled with traceable numbers up to 20. Happy illustrations reinforce the concepts for visual learners.

Everywhere Babies, by Susan Meyers
A poem about all the many things busy babies do from morning to night, this book is a delight to read again and again, because there are always new details to uncover. And diverse characters in the illustrations make this a welcome present for modern families that might not fit the traditional mold.

Pantone: Colors, by Pantone
Let little ones learn colors in the most design-savvy way possible, from the masters of colors themselves—Pantone. Just don’t be surprised if one day you spy a swatch book peeking out of the diaper bag!

Guess How Much I Love You, by Sam McBratney
Let the days of “I love you more” and “No I love you more” begin! This sweet classic celebrates the epic love parents have for their kids and kids have for their parents. It’s the perfect bedtime book to add to their new library.

All Aboard! National Parks, by Haily Meyers
The All Aboard! series encourages new readers to see the world from their crib. With everything from puffins and bison, this wildlife primer introduces American animals that any young explorer would be glad to know!

All in a Day, by Cynthia Rylant
Simple, evocative illustrations paired with text that encourages children to take care of the Earth and make the most of each day make this book a treasured keepsake. Adults will appreciate the wisdom. Children will be drawn in by the rhythm of the text.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar, by Eric Carle
If there’s one book every baby should know, it’s this classic diecut board book. Little fingers can wiggle along as they watch everyone’s favorite green caterpillar becomes a beautiful butterfly. Along the way, kiddos will also learn the days of the week and how to count.

Paris: A Book of Shapes, by Ashley Evanson
Introduce shapes in the chicest of ways with this Paris-inspired title from the Hello, World series. Each book teaches basic concepts like shapes using stylish illustrations of famous cities. Paris? New York? London? And more? You might even inspire a nursery theme!

Baby Touch and Feel: Animals, by DK
With the high-quality photographs DK is known for and touch-and-feel elements like fur and bumps, this book is engaging for new readers and anyone who learns through touch. And don’t bunnies make anything better? Even spit up at midnight?

You Are My Baby: Ocean, by Lorena Siminovich
Each title in this series features a new theme and a book-within-a-book format that will delight parents and their babies. Simple introductions to basic concepts are also included in the sweet illustrations. This title follows a baby whale and his mama on an ocean journey.

So Many Stars, by Andy Warhol
Soup cans. Celebrity obsessions. And playful children’s books? Yes, Andy Warhol was a man of so many talents. And this effervescent modern classic is one your artistic friends and family will be delighted to discover. They may even want to frame it!

Besos for Baby, by Jen Arena and Blanca Gomez
Share some Spanish kisses with your loved ones with this simple bilingual real-aloud. Its cheery illustrations and sweet text are sure to inspire muchos cuddles, giggles, and besos!

Peekaboo!,by Taro Gomi
Before Baby is ready for the classic Everyone Poops, you can introduce Taro Gomi’s winning style with engaging board books. This one turns into a mask that’s perfect for playing (you guessed it) peekaboo with everything from frogs to robots.

Hug, by Jez Alborough
There’s nothing better than a huge hug from someone who loves you, and this monkey knows it! He is on a hunt for a good hug, and readers will love following along as he spreads the love.

I’ll See You in the Morning, by Mike Jolley
The perfect way to end the day, this poetic board book will soothe young and old as they wind down for bed. Snuggles, gentle sighs, and smiles are all invited. Monsters who live under the bed are not allowed!

The Skin You Live In, by Michael Tyler
As people start to understand that being color blind isn’t as dreamy as it sounds, this book celebrates all the ways we are are the same and the beautiful ways we are different. Help children embrace diversity in themselves, their friends, and their family with this playful book.